Everything You Need to Know About CBD

Marijuana has beyond 400 chemical compounds, from which 80 are biologically active molecules. Out of all these chemicals, the most significant cannabinoid is CBD.

But what is CBD? Will it make you high?

Let’s answer these lingering questions right away. CBD or cannabidiol is a golden goose elixir that has therapeutic properties. It is available in many forms – commonly termed as “CBD products.”

Also, it is a non-addictive, non-psychedelic, and safe product to use because it does not intoxicate or makes a person feel stoned.

Extracting CBD

This non-psychoactive molecule is extracted from the dried marijuana plant to convert it into a usable form for topical applications or ingestion.

Usually, CBD is obtained by decarboxylation or heating CBDA (cannabidiolic acid). Moreover, the most common extraction processes manufacturers use are CO2 and ethanol methods.

These are the most common and safe methods because they produce high-quality CBD and capture all the beneficial phytochemicals.  

CBD: A Multipurpose Cannabinoid

Are you worried about pharmaceuticals causing adverse effects on your system? Then, it is better to switch to an organic alternative.

Consumers nowadays are opting for CBD because it provides instant relief from inflammation, anxiety, seizures, chronic pain and alleviates insomnia and depression.

A 2020 study highlighted that CBD’s chemical structure and protein binding profile is similar to those molecules naturally produced in the human body.

It also showed that CBD effectively treated various cancer types; however, well-designed and extensive clinical trials are still needed.

Furthermore, many researchers have proven that CBD has anti-cancer and neuroprotective properties. It can also protect against several neurological conditions like Alzheimer’s, Parkinson’s, dementia, etc.

How Does CBD Work?

Our body consists of an endocannabinoid system (ECS) responsible for regulating several biological processes like glucose metabolism, mood, energy level, bone density, blood pressure, hunger, stress, and pain.

But when the endocannabinoid system does not function properly, diseases erupt. But how does CBD help? The ECS is composed of two receptors, i.e., CB1 and CB2.

CB1 receptors are commonly located in the central nervous system and brain. In contrast, CB2 receptors are present in the peripheral organs.

Since CBD mimics the endogenous cannabinoids in our body, it attaches itself to these cannabinoid receptors and receptor proteins.

Once bound, CBD produces pain-relieving, anti-anxiety, analgesic, and anti-inflammatory effects.        

CBD Products

CBD products are available in various forms. These include CBD tincture or CBD oil, pure CBD or CBD isolate, and CBD gummies.

Moreover, CBD oil is available in two forms – broad and full-spectrum. Broad-spectrum CBD consists of terpenes, flavonoids, three other cannabinoids but no THC. While full-spectrum CBD is the same as broad-spectrum, its THC levels do not surpass 0.3%.   

You will also find CBD lotions, creams, salves, bath bombs, serums, and massage oil.   

Is CBD legal?

The United States has only legalized hemp-derived CBD because it contains no more than 0.3% THC. However, marijuana-derived CBD is still illegal by federal law.

Internationally, CBD is legal in most countries worldwide but only if it is extracted from industrial hemp.